2024.12.09

What are the equivalent ICs to the Qualcomm WCN7851?

The Qualcomm WCN7851 is a highly integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo IC designed for use in Mobile Devices, including smartphones and tablets. It supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.2, and various other features like low power consumption, dual-band Wi-Fi, and integrated audio support.


WCN-7851-1-NSP334-TR-01-0

https://www.edaltech.com/products/wireless-communication-module/wcn-7851-1-nsp334-tr-01-0.html


If you are looking for equivalent or similar ICs from other manufacturers that provide comparable wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth), here are some options:


1. Qualcomm's Own Wi-Fi/Bluetooth ICs:

Qualcomm has a series of Wi-Fi/Bluetooth combo chips similar to the WCN7851, which might be direct alternatives depending on the required features.

  • Qualcomm WCN7650: A predecessor to the WCN7851, this IC also supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0. It is a lower-tier solution in terms of Wi-Fi generation but is widely used in many mid-range devices.

  • Qualcomm WCN7950: A higher-end solution, supporting Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.1, aimed at providing better range, throughput, and multi-user support.

  • Qualcomm QCA6390: Another high-performance Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 solution that supports both dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). It may be used in higher-end devices or those needing superior performance and power efficiency.


2. Broadcom:

Broadcom is a major player in the wireless connectivity space and offers several ICs that provide similar Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo functionality.

  • Broadcom BCM4375: A Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 combo chip, offering high throughput and low power consumption, similar to the WCN7851. It is widely used in smartphones, tablets, and wearables.

  • Broadcom BCM43455: A dual-band (2.4 GHz/5 GHz) Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 combo solution. It is a bit older than the WCN7851 and doesn't support Wi-Fi 6 but is still widely used in various consumer devices.


3. MediaTek:

MediaTek also has some solutions that are directly competitive with Qualcomm’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips.

  • MediaTek MT7921: A Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 combo chip, providing fast wireless speeds and low latency. This chip is often found in mid-to-high-end smartphones and laptops.

  • MediaTek MT7630: A Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 solution, typically found in more budget-friendly devices.


4. Intel:

Intel has a history of providing wireless solutions, although it has shifted away from consumer-grade chips in recent years. However, some Intel chips could be considered alternatives:

  • Intel AX200: A Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.1 combo chip, designed for laptops and other consumer devices. This is primarily used in the PC ecosystem but might find applications in some other wireless devices.

  • Intel AX201: Another Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 combo chip, designed for ultra-low power consumption and high performance.


5. Realtek:

Realtek is a more affordable alternative, offering wireless solutions for both budget and mid-range devices.

  • Realtek RTL8822CE: A Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 combo solution, which offers good performance at a lower price point compared to the WCN7851.

  • Realtek RTL8852AE: A Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 combo chip, positioned as a mid-range solution for consumer electronics.


Key Features to Compare:

When looking for equivalents, you’ll want to focus on:

  • Wi-Fi version: The WCN7851 supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), so alternatives should ideally also support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) to maintain performance and compatibility.

  • Bluetooth version: The WCN7851 supports Bluetooth 5.2, so looking for a chip with at least Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.2 is essential for modern devices.

  • Power efficiency: Look for chips with low power consumption if the target application requires long battery life.

  • Integration: Many of these ICs also integrate additional features like audio support or positioning systems (GPS) for certain applications.


Summary of Equivalent ICs:

  • Qualcomm: WCN7650, WCN7950, QCA6390

  • Broadcom: BCM4375, BCM43455

  • MediaTek: MT7921, MT7630

  • Intel: AX200, AX201

  • Realtek: RTL8822CE, RTL8852AE


Each of these ICs provides a competitive mix of features that may suit different requirements in terms of wireless performance, power efficiency, and application.